György Ligeti's "Ligeti: Cello Concerto; Violin Concerto; Piano Concerto," released on January 1, 1994, under Deutsche Grammophon (DG), is a masterful collection of avant-garde concertos that showcase Ligeti's innovative compositional style. This album features three of Ligeti's most renowned concertos, each a testament to his ability to blend intricate rhythms, haunting melodies, and complex textures.
The Piano Concerto, conducted by Pierre Boulez, is a tour de force of rhythmic precision and luminous energy, with movements ranging from the vivacious "Vivace molto ritmico e preciso" to the intense "Presto luminoso." The Cello Concerto, performed by Jean-Guihen Queyras, offers a profound and desolate beauty, particularly in the "Lento e deserto" movement. The Violin Concerto, with Saschko Gawriloff, is a dynamic and expressive journey, featuring the luminous "Praeludium" and the intense "Passacaglia."
Each concerto is a unique exploration of sound and form, demonstrating Ligeti's ability to push the boundaries of classical music. The Ensemble InterContemporain, under Boulez's direction, brings these works to life with precision and passion, making this album a vital addition to any contemporary music collection. With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a compelling listen for those interested in the avant-garde and the innovative spirit of György Ligeti.